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Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi A, Momeny M, Rezaei N, Fallah F, Bashash D. Immune landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma: From dysregulation of the immune responses to the potential immunotherapies. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4098. [PMID: 39034646 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a considerable global health burden due to its late diagnosis and high morbidity. The liver's specific anatomical and physiological features expose it to various antigens, requiring precise immune regulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a comprehensive overview of the interactions between the immune system and gut microbiota in the development of HCC, as well as the relevant therapeutic approaches are discussed. Dysregulation of immune compartments within the liver microenvironment drives HCC pathogenesis, characterized by elevated regulatory cells such as regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and M2 macrophages as well as suppressive molecules, alongside reduced number of effector cells like T cells, natural killer cells, and M1 macrophages. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota also contributes to HCC by disrupting intestinal barrier integrity and triggering overactivated immune responses. Immunotherapy approaches, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, have exhibited promise in HCC management, yet adoptive cell therapy and cancer vaccination research are in the early steps with relatively less favorable outcomes. Further understanding of immune dysregulation, gut microbiota involvement, and therapeutic combination strategies are essential for advancing precision immunotherapy in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atieh Pourbagheri-Sigaroodi
- Pediatric Infections Research Center, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Momeny
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Fallah
- Pediatric Infections Research Center, Research Institute for Children's Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davood Bashash
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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2
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Galasso L, Cerrito L, Maccauro V, Termite F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1837. [PMID: 38791916 PMCID: PMC11119751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor's defensive fort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Galasso
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Maccauro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
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3
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Kodama T, Takehara T. Molecular Genealogy of Metabolic-associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:147-158. [PMID: 38499207 PMCID: PMC11245329 DOI: 10.1055/a-2289-2298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
This review examines the latest epidemiological and molecular pathogenic findings of metabolic-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Its increasing prevalence is a significant concern and reflects the growing burden of obesity and metabolic diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. Metabolic-associated HCC has unique molecular abnormality and distinctive gene expression patterns implicating aberrations in bile acid, fatty acid metabolism, oxidative stress, and proinflammatory pathways. Furthermore, a notable frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes such as patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3, transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2, glucokinase regulator, and membrane-bound O-acyltransferase domain-containing 7 has been observed. The tumor immune microenvironment of metabolic-associated HCC is characterized by unique phenotypes of macrophages, neutrophils, and T lymphocytes. Additionally, the pathogenesis of metabolic-associated HCC is influenced by abnormal lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and dysbiosis. In conclusion, deciphering the intricate interactions among metabolic processes, genetic predispositions, inflammatory responses, immune regulation, and microbial ecology is imperative for the development of novel therapeutic and preventative measures against metabolic-associated HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Kodama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
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Feng X, Feng B, Zhou J, Yang J, Pan Q, Yu J, Shang D, Li L, Cao H. Mesenchymal stem cells alleviate mouse liver fibrosis by inhibiting pathogenic function of intrahepatic B cells. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00826. [PMID: 38546278 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The immunomodulatory characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) make them a promising therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis (LF). Here, we postulated that MSCs could potentially suppress the pro-fibrotic activity of intrahepatic B cells, thereby inhibiting LF progression. APPROACH AND RESULTS Administration of MSCs significantly ameliorated LF as indicated by reduced myofibroblast activation, collagen deposition, and inflammation. The treatment efficacy of MSCs can be attributed to decreased infiltration, activation, and pro-inflammatory cytokine production of intrahepatic B cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed a distinct intrahepatic B cell atlas, and a subtype of naive B cells (B-II) was identified, which were markedly abundant in fibrotic liver, displaying mature features with elevated expression of several proliferative and inflammatory genes. Transcriptional profiling of total B cells revealed that intrahepatic B cells displayed activation, proliferation, and pro-inflammatory gene profile during LF. Fibrosis was attenuated in mice ablated with B cells (μMT) or in vivo treatment with anti-CD20. Moreover, fibrosis was recapitulated in μMT after adoptive transfer of B cells, which in turn could be rescued by MSC injection, validating the pathogenic function of B cells and the efficacy of MSCs on B cell-promoted LF progression. Mechanistically, MSCs could inhibit the proliferation and cytokine production of intrahepatic B cells through exosomes, regulating the Mitogen-activated protein kinase and Nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathways. CONCLUSIONS Intrahepatic B cells serve as a target of MSCs, play an important role in the process of MSC-induced amelioration of LF, and may provide new clues for revealing the novel mechanisms of MSC action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Feng
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Bing Feng
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Jiahang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Jinfeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Qiaoling Pan
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Jiong Yu
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Dandan Shang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan City, China
| | - Lanjuan Li
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan City, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou City, China
- National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou City, China
| | - Hongcui Cao
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou City, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou City, China
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Aging and Physic-chemical Injury Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou City, China
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5
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Qiu X, Dong L, Wang K, Zhong X, Xu H, Xu S, Guo H, Wei X, Chen W, Xu X. Development and Validation of a Novel Nomogram Integrated with Hypoxic and Lactate Metabolic Characteristics for Prognosis Prediction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:241-255. [PMID: 38333220 PMCID: PMC10850990 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s446313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Accumulating evidence indicates that hypoxia and lactate metabolism play critical roles in tumor progression and therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to construct a hypoxia- and lactate metabolism-related prognostic model (HLPM) to evaluate survival and treatment responses for HCC patients and develop a nomogram integrated with HLPM and clinical characteristics for prognosis prediction in HCC. Methods Expression profile and clinical data of HCC were obtained from TCGA and ICGC databases. The univariate, LASSO and stepwise multivariate Cox analyses were used to identify the hypoxia- and lactate metabolism-related biomarkers, whose expression levels were then validated in 14 pairs tissue samples and single-cell RNA sequencing dataset. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were utilized to assess the prognostic values of biomarkers or models. Analyses of ImmuCellAI, TIDE and drug sensitivity were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic responses of patients. Furthermore, the nomogram integrated with hypoxic and lactate metabolic characteristics was established through univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. ROC curves, C-index, and calibration curves were depicted to evaluate the performance of the nomogram. Results Five hypoxia- and lactate metabolism-related biomarkers (KIF20A, IRAK1, ADM, PPARGC1A and EPO) were used to construct HLPM. The expression of five prognostic biomarkers was validated in 14 pairs tissue samples and single-cell RNA sequencing dataset. Analyses of ImmuCellAI, TIDE and drug sensitivity implied that patients with low-risk score were more sensitive to immunotherapy and major chemotherapeutic agents. The nomogram that contained age, histological grade and risk score of HLPM was developed and exhibited a better capacity in prognosis prediction than HLPM only. Conclusion A novel nomogram integrated with hypoxic and lactate metabolic characteristics was developed and validated for prognosis prediction in HCC, providing insight into personalized decision-making in clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Qiu
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Libin Dong
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyang Zhong
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hanzhi Xu
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengjun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haijun Guo
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuyong Wei
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Cell Biology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Surgery, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310006, People’s Republic of China
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Aasarey R, Yadav K, Kashyap BK, Prabha S, Kumar P, Kumar A, Ruokolainen J, Kesari KK. Role of Immunological Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Disease and Associated Pathways. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1801-1816. [PMID: 38093838 PMCID: PMC10714437 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the predominant causes of cancer-related mortality across the globe. It is attributed to obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and infection by the hepatitis virus. Early diagnosis of HCC is essential, and local treatments such as surgical excision and percutaneous ablation are effective. Palliative systemic therapy, primarily with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Sorafenib, is used in advanced cases. However, the prognosis for advanced HCC remains poor. This Review additionally describes the pathophysiological mechanisms of HCC, which include aberrant molecular signaling, genomic instability, persistent inflammation, and the paradoxical position of the immune system in promoting and suppressing HCC. The paper concludes by discussing the growing body of research on the relationship between mitochondria and HCC, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to the progression of HCC. This Review focuses on immunological interactions between different mechanisms of HCC progression, including obesity, viral infection, and alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Aasarey
- Department
of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute
of Medical Science, New Delhi-11029, India
| | - Kajal Yadav
- Department
of Biotechnology, All India Institute of
Medical Science, New Delhi-11029, India
| | - Brijendra Kumar Kashyap
- Department
of Biotechnology Engineering, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi-284128, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarit Prabha
- Department
of Biological Science and Engineering, Maulana
Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal-462003, Madhya Pradesh,India
| | - Pramod Kumar
- Indian
Council of Medical Research, National Institute
of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), l-7, Sector-39, Noida-201301, National Capital Region, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Department
of Life Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Central University of Jharkhand, Cheri-Manatu, Karmre, Kanke-835222, Ranchi, India
| | - Janne Ruokolainen
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Science, Aalto
University, FI-00076 Espoo, Finland
| | - Kavindra Kumar Kesari
- Department
of Applied Physics, School of Science, Aalto
University, FI-00076 Espoo, Finland
- Research
and Development Cell, Lovely Professional
University, Phagwara-144411, Punjab, India
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7
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Zhang L, Zhao C, Dai W, Tong H, Yang W, Huang Z, Tang C, Gao J. Disruption of cholangiocyte-B cell crosstalk by blocking the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis alleviates liver fibrosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:379. [PMID: 38010435 PMCID: PMC11072584 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05032-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
B cells can promote liver fibrosis, but the mechanism of B cell infiltration and therapy against culprit B cells are lacking. We postulated that the disruption of cholangiocyte-B-cell crosstalk could attenuate liver fibrosis by blocking the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis via a cyclooxygenase-2-independent effect of celecoxib. In wild-type mice subjected to thioacetamide, celecoxib ameliorated lymphocytic infiltration and liver fibrosis. By single-cell RNA sequencing and flow cytometry, CXCR4 was established as a marker for profibrotic and liver-homing phenotype of B cells. Celecoxib reduced liver-homing B cells without suppressing CXCR4. Cholangiocytes expressed CXCL12, attracting B cells to fibrotic areas in human and mouse. The proliferation and CXCL12 expression of cholangiocytes were suppressed by celecoxib. In CXCL12-deficient mice, liver fibrosis was also attenuated with less B-cell infiltration. In the intrahepatic biliary epithelial cell line HIBEpiC, bulk RNA sequencing indicated that both celecoxib and 2,5-dimethyl-celecoxib (an analog of celecoxib that does not show a COX-2-dependent effect) regulated the TGF-β signaling pathway and cell cycle. Moreover, celecoxib and 2,5-dimethyl-celecoxib decreased the proliferation, and expression of collagen I and CXCL12 in HIBEpiC cells stimulated by TGF-β or EGF. Taken together, liver fibrosis can be ameliorated by disrupting cholangiocyte-B cell crosstalk by blocking the CXCL12-CXCR4 axis with a COX-2-independent effect of celecoxib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linhao Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Lab of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 1, 4th Keyuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Chong Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Lab of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 1, 4th Keyuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wenting Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Lab of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 1, 4th Keyuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Huan Tong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhiyin Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Lab of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 1, 4th Keyuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Jinhang Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Lab of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 1, 4th Keyuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Cai D, Yuan X, Cai DQ, Li A, Yang S, Yang W, Duan J, Zhuo W, Min J, Peng L, Wei J. Integrative analysis of lactylation-related genes and establishment of a novel prognostic signature for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:11517-11530. [PMID: 37400571 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04947-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lactylation has been found to involve in regulating many types of biological process in cancers. However, research on lactylation-related genes in predicting the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains limited. METHODS The differential expression of lactylation-related genes (EP300 and HDAC1-3) in pan-cancer were examined in public databases. HCC patient tissues were obtained for mRNA expression and lactylation level detection by RT-qPCR and western blotting. Transwell migration assay, CCK-8 assay, EDU staining assay and RNA-seq were performed to verify the potential function and mechanisms in HCC cell lines after lactylation inhibitor apicidin treatment. lmmuCellAI, quantiSeq, xCell, TIMER and CIBERSOR were used to analyze the correlation between transcription levels of lactylation-related genes and immune cell infiltration in HCC. Risk model of lactylation-related genes was constructed by LASSO regression analysis, and prediction effect of the model was evaluated. RESULT The mRNA levels of lactylation-related genes and lactylation levels were higher in HCC tissues than normal samples. The lactylation levels, cell migration, and proliferation ability of HCC cell lines were suppressed after apicidin treatment. The dysregulation of EP300 and HDAC1-3 was associated with proportion of immune cell infiltration, especially B cell. Upregulation of HDAC1 and HDAC2 was closely associated with poorer prognosis. Finally, a novel risk model, based on HDAC1 and HDAC2, was developed for prognosis prediction in HCC. CONCLUSION HDAC1 and HDAC2 are expected to become new biomarkers for HCC. Risk scoring model based on HDAC1 and HDAC2 can be used to predict the prognosis of HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diankui Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Xiaoqing Yuan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - D Q Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangzhou, 510080, China
- General Surgery Department, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510100, China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Sijia Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Weibang Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Jinxin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Wenfeng Zhuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Jun Min
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Li Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
| | - Jinxing Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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9
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Kotsari M, Dimopoulou V, Koskinas J, Armakolas A. Immune System and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): New Insights into HCC Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11471. [PMID: 37511228 PMCID: PMC10380581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the WHO's recently released worldwide cancer data for 2020, liver cancer ranks sixth in morbidity and third in mortality among all malignancies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common kind of liver cancer, accounts approximately for 80% of all primary liver malignancies and is one of the leading causes of death globally. The intractable tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the development and progression of HCC and is one of three major unresolved issues in clinical practice (cancer recurrence, fatal metastasis, and the refractory tumor microenvironment). Despite significant advances, improved molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still required since it plays an important role in the genesis and progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of the HCC immune microenvironment, distinct cellular constituents, current therapies, and potential immunotherapy methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kotsari
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Dimopoulou
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - John Koskinas
- B' Department of Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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10
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Ge T, Shao Y, Bao X, Xu W, Lu C. Cellular senescence in liver diseases: From mechanisms to therapies. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110522. [PMID: 37385123 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Cellular senescence is an irreversible state of cell cycle arrest, characterized by a gradual decline in cell proliferation, differentiation, and biological functions. Cellular senescence is double-edged for that it can provoke organ repair and regeneration in physiological conditions but contribute to organ and tissue dysfunction and prime multiple chronic diseases in pathological conditions. The liver has a strong regenerative capacity, where cellular senescence and regeneration are closely involved. Herein, this review firstly introduces the morphological manifestations of senescent cells, the major regulators (p53, p21, and p16), and the core pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying senescence process, and then specifically generalizes the role and interventions of cellular senescence in multiple liver diseases, including alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In conclusion, this review focuses on interpreting the importance of cellular senescence in liver diseases and summarizes potential senescence-related regulatory targets, aiming to provide new insights for further researches on cellular senescence regulation and therapeutic developments for liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Ge
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunyun Shao
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaofeng Bao
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxuan Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chunfeng Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
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11
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Yang J, He J, Feng Y, Xiang M. Obesity contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma development via immunosuppressive microenvironment remodeling. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1166440. [PMID: 37266440 PMCID: PMC10231659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1166440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
It is generally recognized that the initiation of obesity-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is closely associated with hepatic inflammation. However, the paradoxical role of inflammation in the initiation and progression of HCC is highlighted by the fact that the inflammatory HCC is accompanied by significant immune effector cells infiltration compared to non-inflammatory HCC and HCC with enhanced immune response exhibits better survival. Importantly, the cancer progression has been primarily attributed to the immunosuppression, which can also be induced by obesity. Furthermore, the increased risk of viral infection and thus viral-HCC in obese individuals supports the view that obesity contributes to HCC via immunosuppression. Here, we have reviewed the various mechanisms responsible for obesity-induced tumor immune microenvironment and immunosuppression in obesity-related HCC. We highlight that the obesity-induced immunosuppression originates from lipid disorder as well as metabolic reprogramming and propose potential therapeutic strategy for HCC based on the current success of immunotherapy.
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12
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Donne R, Lujambio A. The liver cancer immune microenvironment: Therapeutic implications for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2023; 77:1773-1796. [PMID: 35989535 PMCID: PMC9941399 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 139.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The liver is the sixth most common site of primary cancer in humans and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the world. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of liver cancers. HCC is a prevalent disease with a progression that is modulated by the immune system. Half of the patients with HCC receive systemic therapies, traditionally sorafenib or lenvatinib, as a first-line therapy. In the last few years, immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy and have gained an increased interest in the treatment of HCC. In 2020, the combination of atezolizumab (anti-programmed death-ligand 1) and bevacizumab (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor) improved overall survival over sorafenib, resulting in Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval as a first-line treatment for patients with advanced HCC. Despite these major advances, a better molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still needed because it has a crucial role in the development and progression of HCC. Inflamed (hot) and noninflamed (cold) HCC tumors and genomic signatures have been associated with response to ICIs. However, there are no additional biomarkers to guide clinical decision-making. Other immune-targeting strategies, such as adoptive T-cell transfer, vaccination, and virotherapy, are currently under development. This review provides an overview on the HCC immune microenvironment, different cellular players, current available immunotherapies, and potential immunotherapy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romain Donne
- Department of Oncological Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , Tisch Cancer Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , The Precision Immunology Institute , New York , New York , USA
| | - Amaia Lujambio
- Department of Oncological Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , Tisch Cancer Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , The Precision Immunology Institute , New York , New York , USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York , USA
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13
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Yin KL, Li M, Song PP, Duan YX, Ye WT, Tang W, Kokudo N, Gao Q, Liao R. Unraveling the Emerging Niche Role of Hepatic Stellate Cell-derived Exosomes in Liver Diseases. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2023; 11:441-451. [PMID: 36643031 PMCID: PMC9817040 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2022.00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play an essential role in various liver diseases, and exosomes are critical mediators of intercellular communication in local and distant microenvironments. Cellular crosstalk between HSCs and surrounding multiple tissue-resident cells promotes or inhibits the activation of HSCs. Substantial evidence has revealed that HSC-derived exosomes are involved in the occurrence and development of liver diseases through the regulation of retinoid metabolism, lipid metabolism, glucose metabolism, protein metabolism, and mitochondrial metabolism. HSC-derived exosomes are underpinned by vehicle molecules, such as mRNAs and microRNAs, that function in, and significantly affect, the processes of various liver diseases, such as acute liver injury, alcoholic liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, fibrosis, and cancer. As such, numerous exosomes derived from HSCs or HSC-associated exosomes have attracted attention because of their biological roles and translational applications as potential targets for therapeutic targets. Herein, we review the pathophysiological and metabolic processes associated with HSC-derived exosomes, their roles in various liver diseases and their potential clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Li Yin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pei-Pei Song
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yu-Xin Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wen-Tao Ye
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Tang
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
| | - Rui Liao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Correspondence to: Qiang Gao, Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Liver Cancer Institute, Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6695-9906. ; Rui Liao, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Medical University, 1 Youyi Road, Chongqing 400016, China. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0057-2792. E-mail:
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14
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Foglia B, Beltrà M, Sutti S, Cannito S. Metabolic Reprogramming of HCC: A New Microenvironment for Immune Responses. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087463. [PMID: 37108625 PMCID: PMC10138633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary liver cancer, ranking third among the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide and whose incidence varies according to geographical area and ethnicity. Metabolic rewiring was recently introduced as an emerging hallmark able to affect tumor progression by modulating cancer cell behavior and immune responses. This review focuses on the recent studies examining HCC's metabolic traits, with particular reference to the alterations of glucose, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism, the three major metabolic changes that have gained attention in the field of HCC. After delivering a panoramic picture of the peculiar immune landscape of HCC, this review will also discuss how the metabolic reprogramming of liver cancer cells can affect, directly or indirectly, the microenvironment and the function of the different immune cell populations, eventually favoring the tumor escape from immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Foglia
- Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Marc Beltrà
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biomedicina Molecular, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvatore Sutti
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center for Autoimmune Diseases, University of East Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Stefania Cannito
- Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, Italy
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15
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Milardi G, Lleo A. Tumor-Infiltrating B Lymphocytes: Promising Immunotherapeutic Targets for Primary Liver Cancer Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072182. [PMID: 37046842 PMCID: PMC10093314 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma are the fourth most lethal primary cancers worldwide. Therefore, there is an urgent need for therapeutic strategies, including immune cell targeting therapies. The heterogeneity of liver cancer is partially explained by the characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where adaptive and innate immune system cells are the main components. Pioneering studies of primary liver cancers revealed that tumor-infiltrating immune cells and their dynamic interaction with cancer cells significantly impacted carcinogenesis, playing an important role in cancer immune evasion and responses to immunotherapy treatment. In particular, B cells may play a prominent role and have a controversial function in the TME. In this work, we highlight the effect of B lymphocytes as tumor infiltrates in relation to primary liver cancers and their potential prognostic value. We also present the key pathways underlying B-cell interactions within the TME, as well as the way that a comprehensive characterization of B-cell biology can be exploited to develop novel immune-based therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Milardi
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Labaratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
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16
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Cannito S, Dianzani U, Parola M, Albano E, Sutti S. Inflammatory processes involved in NASH-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Biosci Rep 2023; 43:BSR20221271. [PMID: 36691794 PMCID: PMC9874450 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20221271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In the recent years nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming a growing cause of HCCs and the incidence of NAFLD-related HCCs is expected to further dramatically increase by the next decade. Chronic inflammation is regarded as the driving force of NAFLD progression and a key factor in hepatic carcinogenesis. Hepatic inflammation in NAFLD results from the persistent stimulation of innate immunity in response to hepatocellular injury and gut dysbiosis as well as by the activation of adaptive immunity. However, the relative roles of innate and adaptive immunity in the processes leading to HCC are still incompletely characterized. This is due to the complex interplay between different liver cell populations, which is also strongly influenced by gut-derived bacterial products, metabolic/nutritional signals. Furthermore, carcinogenic mechanisms in NAFLD/NASH appear to involve the activation of signals mediated by hypoxia inducible factors. This review discusses recent data regarding the contribution of different inflammatory cells to NAFLD-related HCC and their possible impact on patient response to current treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Cannito
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Umberto Dianzani
- Department of Health Sciences and Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Autoimmune Diseases, University of East Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Parola
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, Unit of Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pathology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Emanuele Albano
- Department of Health Sciences and Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Autoimmune Diseases, University of East Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Sutti
- Department of Health Sciences and Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Autoimmune Diseases, University of East Piedmont, Novara, Italy
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17
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The prognostic impact of tumor-infiltrating B lymphocytes in patients with solid malignancies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 181:103893. [PMID: 36481308 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reviewed the prognostic effect of tumor-infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBLs) on solid malignancies, to determine the potential role of TIBLs in predicting cancer patient's prognosis and their response to immunotherapy. A total of 45 original papers involving 11,099 individual patients were included in this meta-analysis covering 7 kinds of cancer. The pooled results suggested that high levels of TIBLs were correlated with favorable OS in lung, esophageal, gastric, colorectal, liver, and breast cancer; improved RFS in lung cancer; and improved DFS in gastrointestinal neoplasms. Additionally, TIBLs were significantly correlated with negative lymphatic invasion in gastric cancer, small tumor size in hepatocellular carcinoma, and negative distant metastasis in colorectal cancer. Additionally, TIBLs were reported as a discriminative feature of patients treated with immunotherapy with improved survival. We concluded that TIBLs play a favorable prognostic role among the common solid malignancie, providing theoretical evidence for further prognosis prediction for solid tumors.
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18
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Zhang N, Yao H, Zhang Z, Li Z, Chen X, Zhao Y, Ju R, He J, Pan H, Liu X, Lv Y. Ongoing involvers and promising therapeutic targets of hepatic fibrosis: The hepatic immune microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1131588. [PMID: 36875101 PMCID: PMC9978172 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1131588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis is often secondary to chronic inflammatory liver injury. During the development of hepatic fibrosis, the damaged hepatocytes and activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) caused by the pathogenic injury could secrete a variety of cytokines and chemokines, which will chemotactic innate and adaptive immune cells of liver tissue and peripheral circulation infiltrating into the injury site, mediating the immune response against injury and promoting tissue reparation. However, the continuous release of persistent injurious stimulus-induced inflammatory cytokines will promote HSCs-mediated fibrous tissue hyperproliferation and excessive repair, which will cause hepatic fibrosis development and progression to cirrhosis even liver cancer. And the activated HSCs can secrete various cytokines and chemokines, which directly interact with immune cells and actively participate in liver disease progression. Therefore, analyzing the changes in local immune homeostasis caused by immune response under different pathological states will greatly enrich our understanding of liver diseases' reversal, chronicity, progression, and even deterioration of liver cancer. In this review, we summarized the critical components of the hepatic immune microenvironment (HIME), different sub-type immune cells, and their released cytokines, according to their effect on the development of progression of hepatic fibrosis. And we also reviewed and analyzed the specific changes and the related mechanisms of the immune microenvironment in different chronic liver diseases.Moreover, we retrospectively analyzed whether the progression of hepatic fibrosis could be alleviated by modulating the HIME.We aimed to elucidate the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis and provide the possibility for exploring the therapeutic targets for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Zhang
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Huimin Yao
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhixuan Zhang
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhuoqun Li
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xue Chen
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ran Ju
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiayi He
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Heli Pan
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi Lv
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Provincial Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Engineering, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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19
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Fan J, To KKW, Chen ZS, Fu L. ABC transporters affects tumor immune microenvironment to regulate cancer immunotherapy and multidrug resistance. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 66:100905. [PMID: 36463807 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the phenomenon in which cancer cells simultaneously develop resistance to a broad spectrum of structurally and mechanistically unrelated drugs. MDR severely hinders the effective treatment of cancer and is the major cause of chemotherapy failure. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are extensively expressed in various body tissues, and actively transport endogenous and exogenous substrates through biological membranes. Overexpression of ABC transporters is frequently observed in MDR cancer cells, which promotes efflux of chemotherapeutic drugs and reduces their intracellular accumulation. Increasing evidence suggests that ABC transporters regulate tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) by transporting various cytokines, thus controlling anti-tumor immunity and sensitivity to anticancer drugs. On the other hand, the expression of various ABC transporters is regulated by cytokines and other immune signaling molecules. Targeted inhibition of ABC transporter expression or function can enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors by promoting anticancer immune microenvironment. This review provides an update on the recent research progress in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China;Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of pharmacy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bio-characteristic Profiling for Evaluation of Rational Drug Use, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Kenneth Kin Wah To
- School of Pharmacy, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
| | - Liwu Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China;Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China.
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20
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The Tumor Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Untying an Intricate Immunological Network. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246151. [PMID: 36551635 PMCID: PMC9776867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
HCC, the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, is prototypically an inflammation-driven cancer developing after years of inflammatory insults. Consequently, the hepatic microenvironment is a site of complex immunological activities. Moreover, the tolerogenic nature of the liver can act as a barrier to anti-tumor immunity, fostering cancer progression and resistance to immunotherapies based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICB). In addition to being a site of primary carcinogenesis, many cancer types have high tropism for the liver, and patients diagnosed with liver metastasis have a dismal prognosis. Therefore, understanding the immunological networks characterizing the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC will deepen our understanding of liver immunity, and it will underpin the dominant mechanisms controlling both spontaneous and therapy-induced anti-tumor immune responses. Herein, we discuss the contributions of the cellular and molecular components of the liver immune contexture during HCC onset and progression by underscoring how the balance between antagonistic immune responses can recast the properties of the TME and the response to ICB.
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Tourkochristou E, Assimakopoulos SF, Thomopoulos K, Marangos M, Triantos C. NAFLD and HBV interplay - related mechanisms underlying liver disease progression. Front Immunol 2022; 13:965548. [PMID: 36544761 PMCID: PMC9760931 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.965548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and Hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) constitute common chronic liver diseases with worldwide distribution. NAFLD burden is expected to grow in the coming decade, especially in western countries, considering the increased incidence of diabetes and obesity. Despite the organized HBV vaccinations and use of anti-viral therapies globally, HBV infection remains endemic and challenging public health issue. As both NAFLD and HBV have been associated with the development of progressive fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the co-occurrence of both diseases has gained great research and clinical interest. The causative relationship between NAFLD and HBV infection has not been elucidated so far. Dysregulated fatty acid metabolism and lipotoxicity in NAFLD disease seems to initiate activation of signaling pathways that enhance pro-inflammatory responses and disrupt hepatocyte cell homeostasis, promoting progression of NAFLD disease to NASH, fibrosis and HCC and can affect HBV replication and immune encountering of HBV virus, which may further have impact on liver disease progression. Chronic HBV infection is suggested to have an influence on metabolic changes, which could lead to NAFLD development and the HBV-induced inflammatory responses and molecular pathways may constitute an aggravating factor in hepatic steatosis development. The observed altered immune homeostasis in both HBV infection and NAFLD could be associated with progression to HCC development. Elucidation of the possible mechanisms beyond HBV chronic infection and NAFLD diseases, which could lead to advanced liver disease or increase the risk for severe complications, in the case of HBV-NAFLD co-existence is of high clinical significance in the context of designing effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evanthia Tourkochristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Stelios F. Assimakopoulos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece,*Correspondence: Stelios F. Assimakopoulos,
| | - Konstantinos Thomopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Markos Marangos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Role of B Lymphocytes in the Pathogenesis of NAFLD: A 2022 Update. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012376. [PMID: 36293233 PMCID: PMC9603875 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its related complications are becoming one of the most important health problems globally. The liver functions as both a metabolic and an immune organ. The crosstalk between hepatocytes and intrahepatic immune cells plays a key role in coordinating a dual function of the liver in terms of the protection of the host from antigenic overload as a result of receiving nutrients and gut microbiota antigenic stimulation via facilitating immunologic tolerance. B cells are the most abundant lymphocytes in the liver. The crucial role of intrahepatic B cells in energy metabolism under different immune conditions is now emerging in the literature. The accumulating evidence has demonstrated that the antibodies and cytokines produced by B cells in the microenvironment play key and distinct roles in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Herein, we have aimed to consolidate and update the current knowledge about the pathophysiological roles of B cells as well as the underlying mechanisms in energy metabolism. Understanding how B cells can exacerbate and suppress liver damage by exploiting the antibodies and cytokines they produce will be of great importance for designing B-cell targeting therapies to treat various liver diseases.
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Mattos ÂZ, Debes JD, Vogel A, Arrese M, Revelo X, Pase THS, Manica M, Mattos AA. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma: Is there a role for immunotherapy? World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3595-3607. [PMID: 36161041 PMCID: PMC9372815 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i28.3595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most common cancers and it is a major cause of cancer-related deaths. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects approximately one fourth of individuals worldwide and it is becoming one of the most important causes of HCC. The pathogenic mechanisms leading to NAFLD-related HCC are complex and not completely understood. However, metabolic, fibrogenic, oncogenic, inflammatory and immunological pathways seem to be involved. First-line therapy of advanced HCC has recently undergone major changes, since the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab was proven to increase survival when compared to sorafenib. Other immune-oncology drugs are also demonstrating promising results in patients with advanced HCC when compared to traditional systemic therapy. However, initial studies raised concerns that the advantages of immunotherapy might depend on the underlying liver disease, which seems to be particularly important in NAFLD-related HCC, as these tumors might not benefit from it. This article will review the mechanisms of NAFLD-related hepatocarcinogenesis, with an emphasis on its immune aspects, the efficacy of traditional systemic therapy for advanced NAFLD-related HCC, and the most recent data on the role of immunotherapy for this specific group of patients, showing that the management of this condition should be individualized and that a general recommendation cannot be made at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângelo Z Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Jose D Debes
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam 999025, Netherlands
| | - Arndt Vogel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Marco Arrese
- Department of Gastroenterology, School of Medicine and Center for Aging and Regeneration, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 3580000, Chile
| | - Xavier Revelo
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Tales Henrique S Pase
- Internal Medicine Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Miser-icórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Muriel Manica
- Internal Medicine Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Miser-icórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90020-090, Brazil
| | - Angelo A Mattos
- Graduate Program in Medicine: Hepatology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Irmandade Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
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Qin Y, Lu F, Lyu K, Chang AE, Li Q. Emerging concepts regarding pro- and anti tumor properties of B cells in tumor immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:881427. [PMID: 35967441 PMCID: PMC9366002 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.881427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Controversial views regarding the roles of B cells in tumor immunity have existed for several decades. However, more recent studies have focused on its positive properties in antitumor immunity. Many studies have demonstrated a close association of the higher density of intratumoral B cells with favorable outcomes in cancer patients. B cells can interact with T cells as well as follicular dendritic cells within tertiary lymphoid structures, where they undergo a series of biological events, including clonal expansion, somatic hypermutation, class switching, and tumor-specific antibody production, which may trigger antitumor humoral responses. After activation, B cells can function as effector cells via direct tumor-killing, antigen-presenting activity, and production of tumor-specific antibodies. At the other extreme, B cells can obtain inhibitory functions by relevant stimuli, converting to regulatory B cells, which serve as an immunosuppressive arm to tumor immunity. Here we summarize our current understanding of the bipolar properties of B cells within the tumor immune microenvironment and propose potential B cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies, which may help promote cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Qin
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Furong Lu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kexing Lyu
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Otorhinolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Alfred E. Chang
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Qiao Li, ; Alfred E. Chang,
| | - Qiao Li
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Qiao Li, ; Alfred E. Chang,
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Hammad R, Eldosoky MA, Mosaad AM, El-Nasser AM, Kotb FM, Elshennawy SI, Eldesoky NAR, Selim MA, Naguib GG, Ahmed OA, Alboraie M, Aglan RB. Natural Killer Group 2D Receptor and B1a Cells Crosstalk in Post-Hepatitis C Virus Infection Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cirrhosis. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:609-619. [PMID: 35879974 PMCID: PMC9307915 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s360886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Natural killer (NK) and B1a cells are implicated in innate immune surveillance against chronic hepatitis C virus (CHCV). NK group 2D (NKG2D) receptor is important for B cell differentiation. This study was designed to assess whether B1a cells and NK Cells expressing NKG2D are implicated in post-hepatitis C infection hepatocellular carcinoma (post-HCV HCC) and cirrhosis using flow cytometry and investigate the association between NK-expressing NKG2D and B1a in complications of CHCV infection. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 111 participants were included and divided into the post-HCV HCC (n = 50), post-HCV liver cirrhosis (n = 31), and CHCV (n = 30) groups. Results The percentage of B1a cells (B1a%) and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of NKG2D (NKG2D MFI) showed a significant increase in the CHCV group compared with those in the post-HCV liver cirrhosis and post-HCV HCC groups (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between NKG2D MFI and B1a% (r = 0.6, P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that NKG2D MFI and B1a% differentiated between patients with CHCV infection and those with HCC with a sensitivity of 92% and 98%, respectively, and differentiated between patients with CHCV infection and those with liver cirrhosis with a sensitivity of 94% and 90%, respectively. Conclusion Downregulation of B1a frequency and NKG2D intensity is implicated in the progression of CHCV infection to cirrhosis and HCC. NKG2D receptor is associated with the frequency of circulating B1a cells. NKG2D intensity and B1a% can be used as indicators of CHCV progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Hammad
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona A Eldosoky
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alshaimaa M Mosaad
- Hepatogastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa M El-Nasser
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Fatma M Kotb
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Salwa I Elshennawy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha Abdel-Rahman Eldesoky
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Selim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Gina G Naguib
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ossama A Ahmed
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of internal medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Reda Badr Aglan
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Department, National Liver Institute Menoufia university, Menoufia, Egypt
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Bioinformatics Analysis for Constructing a Six-Immune-Related Long Noncoding RNA Signature as a Prognostic Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:2093437. [PMID: 35845962 PMCID: PMC9283041 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2093437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The present study was aimed at identifying the potential prognostic biomarkers of the immune-related long noncoding RNA (IRL) signature for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RNA-sequencing data and clinical information about HCC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The IRLs were determined with regard to the coexpression of immune-related genes and differentially expressed lncRNAs. The survival IRLs were obtained using the univariate Cox analysis. Subsequently, the prognosis model was constructed via the multivariate Cox analysis. Subsequently, functional annotation was conducted using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and principal component analysis (PCA). In total, 341 IRLs were identified, and 6 IRLs were found to have a highly significant association with the prognosis of patients with HCC. The immune prognosis model was constructed with these 6 IRLs (AC099850.4, negative regulator of antiviral response, AL031985.3, PRRT3-antisense RNA1, AL365203.2, and long intergenic nonprotein coding RNA 1224) using the multivariate Cox regression analysis. In addition, immune-related prognosis signatures were confirmed as an independent prognostic factor. The association between prognostic signatures and immune infiltration indicated that the 6 lncRNAs could reflect the immune status of the tumor. Collectively, the present study demonstrates that six-lncRNA signatures may be potential biomarkers to predict the prognosis of patients with HCC.
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Exploring mechanisms of Chaihu-Shugan-San against liver fibrosis by integrated multi-omics and network pharmacology approach. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:231546. [PMID: 35791909 PMCID: PMC9301292 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20221030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chaihu-Shugan-San (CHSGS), a noted traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used as a complementary and alternative therapy for liver fibrosis. However, the antifibrotic mechanisms of CHSGS still remain unclear. Thus, we used network pharmacology approach in combination with single cell and bulk transcriptomics to elucidate the antifibrotic mechanisms of CHSGS. We first screened out 134 bioactive ingredients of CHSGS through the defined criteria. Then, 1,150 genes were predicted to be targets for CHSGS, while 625 liver fibrosis-associated genes were identified by single cell transcriptomics analysis. Next, 71 intersecting genes of CHSGS and liver fibrosis were defined as the therapeutic targets in CHSGS against liver fibrosis. Further, 21 core targets and 12 core ingredients of CHSGS against liver fibrosis were also identified. Meanwhile, enrichment analyses of core targets highlighted that the key mechanisms of CHSGS against liver fibrosis include modulation of inflammation responses, inhibition of angiogenesis, and regulation of ECM remodeling, of which the most important mechanism was the regulation of ECM remodeling. The molecular docking simulation validated strong binding affinity between the core targets and core ingredients. Furthermore, 62-gene signature may be used for determining the prognosis in cirrhotic patients based on the results of ssGSEA-Cox analysis. In conclusion, this study revealed the multiple pharmacological targets and therapeutic mechanisms of CHSGS against liver fibrosis, which may thus serve as an effective antifibrotic therapy. Meanwhile, CHSGS may improve survival of patients with liver cirrhosis by the interaction of 62-gene signature.
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Tao X, Zhang R, Du R, Yu T, Yang H, Li J, Wang Y, Liu Q, Zuo S, Wang X, Lazarus M, Zhou L, Wang B, Yu Y, Shen Y. EP3 enhances adhesion and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward hepatic stellate cells in a murine liver fibrosis model. J Exp Med 2022; 219:213141. [PMID: 35420633 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20212414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells exhibit antifibrotic properties in liver fibrosis (LF) by suppressing activated hepatic stellate cell (HSC) populations. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) plays a dual role in innate and adaptive immunity. Here, we found that E-prostanoid 3 receptor (EP3) was markedly downregulated in NK cells from liver fibrosis mice and patients with liver cirrhosis. NK cell-specific deletion of EP3 aggravated hepatic fibrogenesis in mouse models of LF. Loss of EP3 selectively reduced the cytotoxicity of the CD27+CD11b+ double positive (DP) NK subset against activated HSCs. Mechanistically, deletion of EP3 impaired the adhesion and cytotoxicity of DP NK cells toward HSCs through modulation of Itga4-VCAM1 binding. EP3 upregulated Itga4 expression in NK cells through promoting Spic nuclear translocation via PKC-mediated phosphorylation of Spic at T191. Activation of EP3 by sulprostone alleviated CCL4-induced liver fibrosis in mice. Thus, EP3 is required for adhesion and cytotoxicity of NK cells toward HSCs and may serve as a therapeutic target for the management of LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xixi Tao
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ronglu Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tingting Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiwen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhong Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shengkai Zuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Michael Lazarus
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba City, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Lu Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Bangmao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yujun Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Inflammatory Biology, Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), The Province and Ministry Co-sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Hu MC, Moe OW. Phosphate and Cellular Senescence. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1362:55-72. [PMID: 35288873 PMCID: PMC10513121 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91623-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Cellular senescence is one type of permeant arrest of cell growth and one of increasingly recognized contributor to aging and age-associated disease. High phosphate and low Klotho individually and synergistically lead to age-related degeneration in multiple organs. Substantial evidence supports the causality of high phosphate in cellular senescence, and potential contribution to human aging, cancer, cardiovascular, kidney, neurodegenerative, and musculoskeletal diseases. Phosphate can induce cellular senescence both by direct phosphotoxicity, and indirectly through downregulation of Klotho and upregulation of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. Restriction of dietary phosphate intake and blockage of intestinal absorption of phosphate help suppress cellular senescence. Supplementation of Klotho protein, cellular senescence inhibitor, and removal of senescent cells with senolytic agents are potential novel strategies to attenuate phosphate-induced cellular senescence, retard aging, and ameliorate age-associated, and phosphate-induced disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Chang Hu
- Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Departments of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Orson W Moe
- Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Departments of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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30
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Hao X, Sun G, Zhang Y, Kong X, Rong D, Song J, Tang W, Wang X. Targeting Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment of HCC: New Opportunities and Challenges. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:775462. [PMID: 34869376 PMCID: PMC8633569 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.775462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune associated cells in the microenvironment have a significant impact on the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and have received more and more attention. Different types of immune-associated cells play different roles, including promoting/inhibiting HCC and several different types that are controversial. It is well known that immune escape of HCC has become a difficult problem in tumor therapy. Therefore, in recent years, a large number of studies have focused on the immune microenvironment of HCC, explored many mechanisms worth identifying tumor immunosuppression, and developed a variety of immunotherapy methods as targets, laying the foundation for the final victory in the fight against HCC. This paper reviews recent studies on the immune microenvironment of HCC that are more reliable and important, and provides a more comprehensive view of the investigation of the immune microenvironment of HCC and the development of more immunotherapeutic approaches based on the relevant summaries of different immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopei Hao
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangshun Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Rong
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinhua Song
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuehao Wang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Niu G, Zhang X, Hong R, Yang X, Gu J, Song T, Hu Z, Chen L, Wang X, Xia J, Ke Z, Ren J, Hong L. GJA1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by mediating TGF-β-induced activation and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatic stellate cells. Open Med (Wars) 2021; 16:1459-1471. [PMID: 34693020 PMCID: PMC8486017 DOI: 10.1515/med-2021-0344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gap junction protein, alpha 1 (GJA1), which is correlated with recurrences and unfavorable prognoses in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), is one of the specific proteins expressed by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Methods Expression of GJA1 was compared between HCCs and nontumor tissues (NTs), between hepatic cirrhosis and NTs, and between primary and metastatic HCCs using transcriptomic datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus and the Integrative Molecular Database of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. The in vitro activities of GJA1 were investigated in cultured HSCs and HCC cells. The underlying mechanism was characterized using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and validated by western blotting. Results The expression of GJA1 was significantly increased in HCCs and hepatic cirrhosis compared to that in NTs. GJA1 was also overexpressed in pulmonary metastases from HCCs when compared with HCCs without metastasis. Overexpression of GJA1 promoted while knockdown of GJA1 inhibited proliferation and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-mediated activation and migration of cultured HSCs. Overexpression of GJA1 by lentivirus infection promoted proliferation and migration, while conditioned medium from HSCs overexpressing GJA1 promoted migration but inhibited proliferation of Hep3B and PLC-PRF-5 cells. Lentivirus infection with shGJA1 or conditioned medium from shGJA1-infected HSCs inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCCLM3 cells that had a high propensity toward lung metastasis. Mechanistically, GJA1 induced the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in HSCs and HCCLM3 cells. Conclusion GJA1 promoted HCC progression by inducing HSC activation and the EMT in HSCs. GJA1 is potentially regulated by TGF-β and thus may be a therapeutic target to inhibit HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gengming Niu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaotian Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Runqi Hong
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Ximin Yang
- Department of Radiology, Dongying New District Hospital, Dongying, Shandong Province, 257000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqing Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Xia
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongwei Ke
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 801 Heqing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 801 Heqing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Hong
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, 801 Heqing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
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Caligiuri A, Gentilini A, Pastore M, Gitto S, Marra F. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Liver Fibrosis Regression. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102759. [PMID: 34685739 PMCID: PMC8534788 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver injury of different etiologies may result in hepatic fibrosis, a scar formation process consisting in altered deposition of extracellular matrix. Progression of fibrosis can lead to impaired liver architecture and function, resulting in cirrhosis and organ failure. Although fibrosis was previous thought to be an irreversible process, recent evidence convincingly demonstrated resolution of fibrosis in different organs when the cause of injury is removed. In the liver, due to its high regenerative ability, the extent of fibrosis regression and reversion to normal architecture is higher than in other tissues, even in advanced disease. The mechanisms of liver fibrosis resolution can be recapitulated in the following main points: removal of injurious factors causing chronic hepatic damage, elimination, or inactivation of myofibroblasts (through various cell fates, including apoptosis, senescence, and reprogramming), inactivation of inflammatory response and induction of anti-inflammatory/restorative pathways, and degradation of extracellular matrix. In this review, we will discuss the major cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the regression of fibrosis/cirrhosis and the potential therapeutic approaches aimed at reversing the fibrogenic process.
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Barrow F, Khan S, Wang H, Revelo XS. The Emerging Role of B Cells in the Pathogenesis of NAFLD. Hepatology 2021; 74:2277-2286. [PMID: 33961302 PMCID: PMC8463421 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
NAFLD is one of the leading causes of abnormal liver function worldwide. NAFLD refers to a group of liver conditions ranging from nonalcoholic fatty liver to NASH, which involves inflammation, hepatocellular damage, and fibrosis. Triggering of inflammation in NASH is a key event in the progression of the disease, and identifying the factors that initiate or dysregulate this process is needed to develop strategies for its prevention or treatment. B cells have been implicated in several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. However, their role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and NASH is less clear. This review discusses the emerging evidence implicating intrahepatic B cells in the progression of NAFLD. We highlight the potential mechanisms of B-cell activation during NAFLD, such as increased hepatic expression of B-cell-activating factor, augmented oxidative stress, and translocation of gut-derived microbial products. We discuss the possible effector functions by which B cells promote NAFLD, including the production of proinflammatory cytokines and regulation of intrahepatic T cells and macrophages. Finally, we highlight the role of regulatory and IgA+ B cells in the pathogenesis of NASH-associated HCC. In this review, we make the case that future research is needed to investigate the potential of B-cell-targeting strategies for the treatment of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanta Barrow
- Department of Integrative Biology and PhysiologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN
| | - Saad Khan
- Department of ImmunologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoONCanada
| | - Haiguang Wang
- Department of Integrative Biology and PhysiologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN
| | - Xavier S. Revelo
- Department of Integrative Biology and PhysiologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN,Center for ImmunologyUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMN
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Zhang M, Serna-Salas S, Damba T, Borghesan M, Demaria M, Moshage H. Hepatic stellate cell senescence in liver fibrosis: Characteristics, mechanisms and perspectives. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 199:111572. [PMID: 34536446 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Myofibroblasts play an important role in fibrogenesis. Hepatic stellate cells are the main precursors of myofibroblasts. Cellular senescence is the terminal cell fate in which proliferating cells undergo irreversible cell cycle arrest. Senescent hepatic stellate cells were identified in liver fibrosis. Senescent hepatic stellate cells display decreased collagen production and proliferation. Therefore, induction of senescence could be a protective mechanism against progression of liver fibrosis and the concept of therapy-induced senescence has been proposed to treat liver fibrosis. In this review, characteristics of senescent hepatic stellate cells and the essential signaling pathways involved in senescence are reviewed. Furthermore, the potential impact of senescent hepatic stellate cells on other liver cell types are discussed. Senescent cells are cleared by the immune system. The persistence of senescent cells can remodel the microenvironment and interact with inflammatory cells to induce aging-related dysfunction. Therefore, senolytics, a class of compounds that selectively induce death of senescent cells, were introduced as treatment to remove senescent cells and consequently decrease the disadvantageous effects of persisting senescent cells. The effects of senescent hepatic stellate cells in liver fibrosis need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengfan Zhang
- Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sandra Serna-Salas
- Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Turtushikh Damba
- Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; School of Pharmacy, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Michaela Borghesan
- European Research Institute on the Biology of Aging (ERIBA), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Demaria
- European Research Institute on the Biology of Aging (ERIBA), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Han Moshage
- Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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Nutrition and cellular senescence in obesity-related disorders. J Nutr Biochem 2021; 99:108861. [PMID: 34517097 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2021.108861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adequate nutrition is vital for immune homeostasis. However, the incidence of obesity is increasing worldwide due to the adoption of the Western diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation which alters the function of adipose tissue, liver, pancreas, and the nervous system. Inflammation is related to cellular senescence, distinguished by irreversible cell cycle arrest. Senescent cells secrete the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) which contains pro-inflammatory factors. Targeting processes in senescence might have a salutary approach to obesity. The present review highlights the impact of an unhealthy diet on tissues affected by obesity, and the mechanisms that promote the consequent inflammation and senescence.
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Yang F, Li H, Li Y, Hao Y, Wang C, Jia P, Chen X, Ma S, Xiao Z. Crosstalk between hepatic stellate cells and surrounding cells in hepatic fibrosis. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 99:108051. [PMID: 34426110 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic fibrosis represents as a dynamic pathological process characterized by the net accumulation of extracellular matrix in the progression of various chronic liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is well-defined to play a central role in the initiation and progression of hepatic fibrosis. However, the activation of HSCs is affected by the complicated microenvironments in liver, which largely attributes to the communication between hepatocytes and multiple tissue-resident cells, including sinusoidal endothelial cells, bile duct epithelial cells, platelets, T cells, B cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, neutrophils, dendritic cells, in the direct or indirect mechanisms. Cellular crosstalk between HSCs and surrounding cells contributes to the activation of HSCs and the progression of hepatic fibrosis. Currently, accumulating evidence have proven the complexity and plasticity of HSCs activation, and further clarification of cellular communication between HSCs and surrounding cells will provide sufficient clue to the development of novel diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies for hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangming Yang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Heng Li
- Laboratory of Anti-inflammation and Immunopharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yanmin Li
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaokun Hao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chenxiao Wang
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pan Jia
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinju Chen
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Suping Ma
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Zhun Xiao
- Department of Digestive Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China.
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Yang J, Liu M, Hong D, Zeng M, Zhang X. The Paradoxical Role of Cellular Senescence in Cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:722205. [PMID: 34458273 PMCID: PMC8388842 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.722205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular senescence occurs in proliferating cells as a consequence of various triggers including telomere shortening, DNA damage, and inappropriate expression of oncogenes. The senescent state is accompanied by failure to reenter the cell cycle under mitotic stimulation, resistance to cell death and enhanced secretory phenotype. A growing number of studies have convincingly demonstrated a paradoxical role for spontaneous senescence and therapy-induced senescence (TIS), that senescence may involve both cancer prevention and cancer aggressiveness. Cellular senescence was initially described as a physiological suppressor mechanism of tumor cells, because cancer development requires cell proliferation. However, there is growing evidence that senescent cells may contribute to oncogenesis, partly in a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP)-dependent manner. On the one hand, SASP prevents cell division and promotes immune clearance of damaged cells, thereby avoiding tumor development. On the other hand, SASP contributes to tumor progression and relapse through creating an immunosuppressive environment. In this review, we performed a review to summarize both bright and dark sides of senescence in cancer, and the strategies to handle senescence in cancer therapy were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mengmeng Liu
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongchun Hong
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Musheng Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Melanoma and Sarcoma Medical Oncology Unit, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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Zheng Y, Li Y, Feng J, Li J, Ji J, Wu L, Yu Q, Dai W, Wu J, Zhou Y, Guo C. Cellular based immunotherapy for primary liver cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2021; 40:250. [PMID: 34372912 PMCID: PMC8351445 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is a common malignancy with high morbidity and mortality. Poor prognosis and easy recurrence on PLC patients calls for optimizations of the current conventional treatments and the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. For most malignancies, including PLC, immune cells play crucial roles in regulating tumor microenvironments and specifically recognizing tumor cells. Therefore, cellular based immunotherapy has its instinctive advantages in PLC therapy as a novel therapeutic strategy. From the active and passive immune perspectives, we introduced the cellular based immunotherapies for PLC in this review, covering both the lymphoid and myeloid cells. Then we briefly review the combined cellular immunotherapeutic approaches and the existing obstacles for PLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jiao Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jie Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Liwei Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Qiang Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Weiqi Dai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jianye Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China.
| | - Yingqun Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Chuanyong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Putuo People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200060, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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Qin M, Wang D, Fang Y, Zheng Z, Liu X, Wu F, Wang L, Li X, Hui B, Ma S, Tang W, Pan X. Current Perspectives on B Lymphocytes in the Immunobiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:647854. [PMID: 34235074 PMCID: PMC8256159 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.647854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune cells infiltrating tumors are capable of significantly impacting carcinogenesis through cancer promotion and anticancer responses. There are many aspects of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) related T lymphocytes that are undergoing extensive studies, whereas the effect exerted by B lymphocytes remains a less researched area. In this study, the latest research on the effect of B lymphocytes as they infiltrate tumors in relation to HCC is presented. Their prognosis-related importance is analyzed, along with their function in the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the way that B cell biology can be employed to help create a B cell therapy strategy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Qin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Danping Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yijiao Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiying Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liangliang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bingqing Hui
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shijie Ma
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Huaian No.1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Weiwei Tang
- Hepatobiliary/Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Living Donor Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiongxiong Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Cross-talk between hepatic stellate cells and T lymphocytes in liver fibrosis. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2021; 20:207-214. [PMID: 33972160 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibrosis results from inflammation and healing following injury. The imbalance between extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion and degradation leads to the ECM accumulation and liver fibrosis. This process is regulated by immune cells. T lymphocytes, including alpha beta (αβ) T cells, which have adaptive immune functions, and gamma delta (γδ) T cells, which have innate immune functions, are considered regulators of liver fibrosis. This review aimed to present the current understanding of the cross-talk between T lymphocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are the key cells in liver fibrosis. DATA SOURCES The keywords "liver fibrosis", "immune", and "T cells" were used to retrieve articles published in PubMed database before January 31, 2020. RESULTS The ratio of CD8+ (suppressor) T cells to CD4+ (helper) T cells is significantly higher in the liver than in the peripheral blood. T cells secrete a series of cytokines and chemokines to regulate the inflammation in the liver and the activation of HSCs to influence the course of liver fibrosis. In addition, HSCs also regulate the differentiation and proliferation of T cells. CONCLUSIONS The cross-talk between T cells and HSCs regulates liver fibrosis progression. The elucidation of this communication process will help us to understand the pathological process of liver fibrosis.
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Giraud J, Chalopin D, Blanc JF, Saleh M. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Immune Landscape and the Potential of Immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:655697. [PMID: 33815418 PMCID: PMC8012774 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.655697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver tumor and among the deadliest cancers worldwide. Advanced HCC overall survival is meager and has not improved over the last decade despite approval of several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKi) for first and second-line treatments. The recent approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) has revolutionized HCC palliative care. Unfortunately, the majority of HCC patients fail to respond to these therapies. Here, we elaborate on the immune landscapes of the normal and cirrhotic livers and of the unique HCC tumor microenvironment. We describe the molecular and immunological classifications of HCC, discuss the role of specific immune cell subsets in this cancer, with a focus on myeloid cells and pathways in anti-tumor immunity, tumor promotion and immune evasion. We also describe the challenges and opportunities of immunotherapies in HCC and discuss new avenues based on harnessing the anti-tumor activity of myeloid, NK and γδ T cells, vaccines, chimeric antigen receptors (CAR)-T or -NK cells, oncolytic viruses, and combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Giraud
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, ImmunoConcEpT, UMR 5164, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Jean-Frédéric Blanc
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM UMR 1053, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Oncology, CHU Bordeaux, Haut Leveque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - Maya Saleh
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, ImmunoConcEpT, UMR 5164, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Ye X, Wei J, Yue M, Wang Y, Chen H, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhang M, Huang P, Yu R. Leveraging Single-Cell RNA-seq Data to Uncover the Association Between Cell Type and Chronic Liver Diseases. Front Genet 2021; 12:637322. [PMID: PMID: 33763117 PMCID: PMC7982650 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.637322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Components of liver microenvironment is complex, which makes it difficult to clarify pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases (CLD). Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have greatly revealed the role of host genetic background in CLD pathogenesis and prognosis, while single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) enables interrogation of the cellular diversity and function of liver tissue at unprecedented resolution. Here, we made integrative analysis on the GWAS and scRNA-seq data of CLD to uncover CLD-related cell types and provide clues for understanding on the pathogenesis. Methods We downloaded three GWAS summary data and three scRNA-seq data on CLD. After defining the cell types for each scRNA-seq data, we used RolyPoly and LDSC-cts to integrate the GWAS and scRNA-seq. In addition, we analyzed one scRNA-seq data without association to CLD to validate the specificity of our findings. Results After processing the scRNA-seq data, we obtain about 19,002–32,200 cells and identified 10–17 cell types. For the HCC analysis, we identified the association between B cell and HCC in two datasets. RolyPoly also identified the association, when we integrated the two scRNA-seq datasets. In addition, we also identified natural killer (NK) cell as HCC-associated cell type in one dataset. In specificity analysis, we identified no significant cell type associated with HCC. As for the cirrhosis analysis, we obtained no significant related cell type. Conclusion In this integrative analysis, we identified B cell and NK cell as HCC-related cell type. More attention and verification should be paid to them in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Ye
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Julong Wei
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ming Yue
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbo Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Meiling Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Jurong, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rongbin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Okada F, Izutsu R, Goto K, Osaki M. Inflammation-Related Carcinogenesis: Lessons from Animal Models to Clinical Aspects. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040921. [PMID: 33671768 PMCID: PMC7926701 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In multicellular organisms, inflammation is the body’s most primitive and essential protective response against any external agent. Inflammation, however, not only causes various modern diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, metabolic syndrome, infectious diseases, and cancer but also shortens the healthy life expectancy. This review focuses on the onset of carcinogenesis due to chronic inflammation caused by pathogen infections and inhalation/ingestion of foreign substances. This study summarizes animal models associated with inflammation-related carcinogenesis by organ. By determining factors common to inflammatory carcinogenesis models, we examined strategies for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory carcinogenesis in humans. Abstract Inflammation-related carcinogenesis has long been known as one of the carcinogenesis patterns in humans. Common carcinogenic factors are inflammation caused by infection with pathogens or the uptake of foreign substances from the environment into the body. Inflammation-related carcinogenesis as a cause for cancer-related death worldwide accounts for approximately 20%, and the incidence varies widely by continent, country, and even region of the country and can be affected by economic status or development. Many novel approaches are currently available concerning the development of animal models to elucidate inflammation-related carcinogenesis. By learning from the oldest to the latest animal models for each organ, we sought to uncover the essential common causes of inflammation-related carcinogenesis. This review confirmed that a common etiology of organ-specific animal models that mimic human inflammation-related carcinogenesis is prolonged exudation of inflammatory cells. Genotoxicity or epigenetic modifications by inflammatory cells resulted in gene mutations or altered gene expression, respectively. Inflammatory cytokines/growth factors released from inflammatory cells promote cell proliferation and repair tissue injury, and inflammation serves as a “carcinogenic niche”, because these fundamental biological events are common to all types of carcinogenesis, not just inflammation-related carcinogenesis. Since clinical strategies are needed to prevent carcinogenesis, we propose the therapeutic apheresis of inflammatory cells as a means of eliminating fundamental cause of inflammation-related carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Futoshi Okada
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan; (R.I.); (K.G.); (M.O.)
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-859-38-6241
| | - Runa Izutsu
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan; (R.I.); (K.G.); (M.O.)
| | - Keisuke Goto
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan; (R.I.); (K.G.); (M.O.)
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiko Osaki
- Division of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan; (R.I.); (K.G.); (M.O.)
- Chromosome Engineering Research Center, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan
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Kiseleva YV, Zharikov YO, Maslennikov RV, Pavlov CS, Nikolenko VN. Molecular factors associated with regression of liver fibrosis of alcoholic etiology. TERAPEVT ARKH 2021; 93:204-208. [PMID: 36286638 DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2021.02.200617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis develops as a result of chronic liver damage of various etiologies, is characterized by excessive synthesis of connective tissue by activated stellate liver cells. The toxic effect of alcohol is one of the most significant and common etiological factors worldwide. Stellate cell activation results from the interaction of multiple molecular fibrogenic pathways triggered by intracellular and extracellular, hepatic and extrahepatic stimuli. Data analysis showed that knowledge about these abnormal pathways and biomolecular processes may further contribute to the improvement of approaches to assessment of disease prognosis and treatment of alcoholic liver disease.
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Tang S, Huang Z, Jiang J, Gao J, Zhao C, Tai Y, Ma X, Zhang L, Ye Y, Gan C, Su W, Jia X, Liu R, Wu H, Tang C. Celecoxib ameliorates liver cirrhosis via reducing inflammation and oxidative stress along spleen-liver axis in rats. Life Sci 2021; 272:119203. [PMID: 33577848 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Splenomegaly is usually taken as a consequence of liver cirrhosis. However, as a risk factor for cirrhosis, the impacts of spleen-liver axis on the development of cirrhosis are largely unknown. This study focused on the impacts of splenomegaly on the development of cirrhosis and assessment of the effects of celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, on the splenomegaly and cirrhotic liver. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver cirrhosis was induced by thioacetamide (TAA). Sixty rats were randomly divided into control, TAA-16w, TAA + celecoxib groups and normal, TAA + sham, TAA + splenectomy groups. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) or hepatocytes were co-cultured with splenocytes from those groups. RESULTS Splenocytes of cirrhotic rats stimulated the HSCs activation and induced hepatocyte apoptosis via enhancing oxidative stress. The hepatic levels of NOX-4 and the in situ O2- were profoundly reduced in TAA + splenectomy group by 50.6% and 18.5% respectively, p < 0.05. Celecoxib significantly decreased the hepatic fibrotic septa induced with TAA by 50.8%, p < 0.05. Splenic lymphoid tissue proliferation and proinflammatory cytokines of the cirrhotic rats were also obviously suppressed by celecoxib, p < 0.05. Compared with the HSC or hepatocyte cell line co-cultured with the cirrhotic splenocytes, the expression of alpha-SMA, NOX-4, in situ O2- or the levels of cleaved caspase3 and NOX-4 were significantly decreased in those cell lines co-cultured with cirrhotic splenocytes treated by celecoxib, p < 0.05. CONCLUSION Splenomegaly contributed to the development of liver cirrhosis through enhancing oxidative stress in liver. Celecoxib could effectively ameliorate liver cirrhosis via reducing inflammatory cytokines and immune cells derived from spleen and suppressing oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihang Tang
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyin Huang
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jingsun Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jinhang Gao
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chong Zhao
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yang Tai
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Linhao Zhang
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanting Ye
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Can Gan
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Su
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xintong Jia
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Chengwei Tang
- Lab. of gastroenterology & Hepatology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Gamaev L, Mizrahi L, Friehmann T, Rosenberg N, Pappo O, Olam D, Zeira E, Bahar Halpern K, Caruso S, Zucman-Rossi J, Axelrod JH, Galun E, Goldenberg DS. The pro-oncogenic effect of the lncRNA H19 in the development of chronic inflammation-mediated hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncogene 2021; 40:127-139. [PMID: 33093654 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01513-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The oncofetal long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) H19 is postnatally repressed in most tissues, and re-expressed in many cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The role of H19 in carcinogenesis is a subject of controversy. We aimed to examine the role of H19 in chronic inflammation-mediated hepatocarcinogenesis using the Mdr2/Abcb4 knockout (Mdr2-KO) mouse, a well-established HCC model. For this goal, we have generated Mdr2-KO/H19-KO double knockout (dKO) mice and followed spontaneous tumor development in the dKO and control Mdr2-KO mice. Cellular localization of H19 and effects of H19 loss in the liver were determined in young and old Mdr2-KO mice. Tumor incidence and tumor load were both significantly decreased in the liver of dKO versus Mdr2-KO females. The expression levels of H19 and Igf2 were variable in nontumor liver tissues of Mdr2-KO females and were significantly downregulated in most matched tumors. In nontumor liver tissue of aged Mdr2-KO females, H19 was expressed mainly in hepatocytes, and hepatocyte proliferation was increased compared to dKO females. At an early age, dKO females displayed lower levels of liver injury and B-cell infiltration, with higher percentage of binuclear hepatocytes. In human samples, H19 expression was higher in females, positively correlated with cirrhosis (in nontumor liver samples) and negatively correlated with CTNNB1 (beta-catenin) mutations and patients' survival (in tumors). Our data demonstrate that the lncRNA H19 is pro-oncogenic during the development of chronic inflammation-mediated HCC in the Mdr2-KO mouse model, mainly by increasing liver injury and decreasing hepatocyte polyploidy in young mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lika Gamaev
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Lina Mizrahi
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tomer Friehmann
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nofar Rosenberg
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Orit Pappo
- Department of Pathology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Devorah Olam
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Evelyne Zeira
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Keren Bahar Halpern
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Stefano Caruso
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors Laboratory, F-75006, Paris, France
| | - Jessica Zucman-Rossi
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors Laboratory, F-75006, Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, F-75015, Paris, France
| | - Jonathan H Axelrod
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eithan Galun
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Daniel S Goldenberg
- The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene and Cell Therapy, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in liver cancer: Deciphering the role of gut microbiome. Adv Cancer Res 2020; 149:171-255. [PMID: 33579424 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Much recent research has delved into understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms of HCC pathogenesis, which has revealed to be heterogenous and complex. Two major hallmarks of HCC include: (i) a hijacked immunometabolism and (ii) a reprogramming in metabolic processes. We posit that the gut microbiota is a third component in an entanglement triangle contributing to HCC progression. Besides metagenomic studies highlighting the diagnostic potential in the gut microbiota profile, recent research is pinpointing the gut microbiota as an instigator, not just a mere bystander, in HCC. In this chapter, we discuss mechanistic insights on atypical immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming in HCC, including the examination of tumor-associated macrophages and neutrophils, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (e.g., T-cell exhaustion, regulatory T-cells, natural killer T-cells), the Warburg effect, rewiring of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and glutamine addiction. We further discuss the potential involvement of the gut microbiota in these characteristics of hepatocarcinogenesis. An immediate highlight is that microbiota metabolites (e.g., short chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids) can impair anti-tumor responses, which aggravates HCC. Lastly, we describe the rising 'new era' of immunotherapies (e.g., immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T-cell transfer) and discuss for the potential incorporation of gut microbiota targeted therapeutics (e.g., probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation) to alleviate HCC. Altogether, this chapter invigorates for continuous research to decipher the role of gut microbiome in HCC from its influence on immunometabolism and metabolic reprogramming.
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Azad AI, Krishnan A, Troop L, Li Y, Katsumi T, Pavelko K, Kostallari E, Guicciardi ME, Gores GJ. Targeted Apoptosis of Ductular Reactive Cells Reduces Hepatic Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Cholestasis. Hepatology 2020; 72:1013-1028. [PMID: 32128842 PMCID: PMC7774262 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In cholestatic liver diseases, ductular reactive (DR) cells extend into the hepatic parenchyma and promote inflammation and fibrosis. We have previously observed that multidrug-resistant 2 (Mdr2-/- ) double knockout (DKO) mice lacking tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor (Tr-/- ) display a more extensive ductular reaction and hepatic fibrosis compared to Mdr2-/- mice. This observation suggests that the magnitude of the DR-cell population may be regulated by apoptosis. APPROACH AND RESULTS To examine this concept, we cultured epithelial cell adhesion molecule-positive reactive cholangioids (ERCs) obtained from wild-type (WT), Tr-/- , Mdr2-/- and DKO mice. Single-cell transcriptomics and immunostaining of both WT and DKO ERCs confirmed their DR-cell phenotype. Moreover, DKO ERCs displayed a unique translational cluster with expression of chemokines, indicating a reactive state. Incubation with the myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) inhibitor S63845, a proapoptotic BH3-mimetic therapy, significantly decreased DKO and Mdr2-/- ERC viability compared to WT. Intravenous administration of S63845 significantly reduced the DR-cell population and markers of inflammation and liver fibrosis in Mdr2-/- and DKO mice. Furthermore, DKO mice treated with S63845 displayed a significant decrease in hepatic B lymphocytes compared to untreated mice as assessed by high-definition mass cytometry by time-of-flight. Coculture of bone marrow-derived macrophages with ERCs from DKO mouse livers up-regulated expression of the B cell-directed chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5. Finally, DR cells were noted to be primed for apoptosis with Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer activation in vitro and in vivo in primary sclerosing cholangitis liver specimens. CONCLUSIONS DR cells appear to play a key role in recruiting immune cells to the liver to actively create an inflammatory and profibrogenic microenvironment. Pharmacologic targeting of MCL1 in a mouse model of chronic cholestasis reduces DR-cell and B-cell populations and hepatic fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiba I. Azad
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Anuradha Krishnan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Leia Troop
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Ying Li
- Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Tomohiro Katsumi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Kevin Pavelko
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Enis Kostallari
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Gregory J. Gores
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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Immunological distinctions between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Exp Mol Med 2020; 52:1209-1219. [PMID: 32770081 PMCID: PMC8080649 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-020-0480-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common cause of chronic liver disease, ranges from simple hepatic steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is a more aggressive form characterized by hepatocyte injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. Increasing evidence suggests that NASH is a risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the second most common cause of cancer-related death. Recent studies support a strong mechanistic link between the NASH microenvironment and HCC development. The liver has a large capacity to remove circulating pathogens and gut-derived microbial compounds. Thus, the liver is a central player in immunoregulation. Altered immune responses are tightly associated with the development of NASH and HCC. The objective of this study was to differentiate the roles of specific immune cell subsets in NASH and HCC pathogenesis. Clarifying the role of specific cells in the immune system in the transition from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to liver cancer will help to understand disease progression and may open avenues towards new preventive and therapeutic strategies. NAFLD is the most common chronic liver disease. Growing evidence suggests that its most aggressive form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), can promote the development of liver cancer, the second most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Chang-Woo Lee and colleagues at Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea review the immunological distinction between NASH and liver cancer, focusing on the levels and activities of six key types of immune system cells. Chronic inflammation mediated by the immune system can create conditions for NAFLD, NASH and liver cancer to develop and worsen.
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Ramachandran P, Matchett KP, Dobie R, Wilson-Kanamori JR, Henderson NC. Single-cell technologies in hepatology: new insights into liver biology and disease pathogenesis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 17:457-472. [PMID: 32483353 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-020-0304-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Liver disease is a major global health-care problem, affecting an estimated 844 million people worldwide. Despite this substantial burden, therapeutic options for liver disease remain limited, in part owing to a paucity of detailed analyses defining the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive these conditions in humans. Single-cell transcriptomic technologies are transforming our understanding of cellular diversity and function in health and disease. In this Review, we discuss how these technologies have been applied in hepatology, advancing our understanding of cellular heterogeneity and providing novel insights into fundamental liver biology such as the metabolic zonation of hepatocytes, endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells, and the cellular mechanisms underpinning liver regeneration. Application of these methodologies is also uncovering critical pathophysiological changes driving disease states such as hepatic fibrosis, where distinct populations of macrophages, endothelial cells and mesenchymal cells reside within a spatially distinct fibrotic niche and interact to promote scar formation. In addition, single-cell approaches are starting to dissect key cellular and molecular functions in liver cancer. In the near future, new techniques such as spatial transcriptomics and multiomic approaches will further deepen our understanding of disease pathogenesis, enabling the identification of novel therapeutic targets for patients across the spectrum of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Ramachandran
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kylie P Matchett
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ross Dobie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - John R Wilson-Kanamori
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Neil C Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK. .,MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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